In recent postings on multiple threads, I have hit symphony orchestras hard for their lack of exercising good business practices. In re-reading those postings, I was very "harsh." I would like to soften my view some. I realize that it's very hard to mix artistic pursuits with business concerns, and there's always a tendency for artists to shy away from business matters and for business folks to think that if artists have their way, the whole structure will crumble. One area that must be particularly difficult is the concert programming function. It would appear reasonable that the music director would determine the programming. On the other hand, programming greatly impacts the "business", and on that basis, should be determined by marketing specialists. What's best? It's hard to say. Both sides need to have input and reach some mutually agreeable decisions. Perhaps the key here is for each group to keep in mind that it needs the other - only when they are in harmony will processes go smoothly and results be positively maximized. Don Satz [log in to unmask]